1982 Fiat 131 vs. 1987 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1987 Lancia Thema is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lancia Thema weights approximately 190 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Fiat 131 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lancia Thema, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Lancia Thema (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 1987 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 131 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
